Clockwork Spring Balancing Mechanism for X-ray Detector
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray imaging apparatuses face challenges in balancing the load of X-ray detectors during raising and lowering, as the use of lead counterpoises is inhibited by regulations, necessitating an alternative balancing mechanism.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray detecting stand with a balancing mechanism that utilizes a clockwork spring to exert force on a belt, eliminating the need for a counterpoise, featuring a wire and wheel system with a ratchet gear and detent mechanism to ensure load balancing and safety, even in the event of wire failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lead counterpoise is used to balance the load of the X-ray detector, then the load balancing is effective, but the usage is inhibited by legal regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the lead counterpoise with a spring mechanism that provides an upward force to balance the downward gravitational force on the X-ray detector. The spring acts as a non-lead counterweight, maintaining the load balancing function while complying with regulatory restrictions on lead materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state and material properties of the balancing mechanism from a static lead mass to a dynamic spring system. This parameter change allows the system to maintain force balance while using compliant materials and meeting regulatory requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a spring-based balancing mechanism is used instead of a counterpoise, then regulatory constraints are overcome, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The balancing mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the spring element for force generation, the wire for force transmission, the pulley for direction change, and the safety device for emergency protection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire acts as an intermediary element that transmits the elastic force from the spring to the X-ray detector. This mediator allows the spring to balance the load without direct mechanical connection, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the elevating range is increased to accommodate more imaging positions, then the versatility of the system improves, but the load variation and balancing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-based balancing mechanism is inherently dynamic, automatically adjusting the balancing force as the X-ray detector moves to different positions. The spring's elastic properties allow it to accommodate varying loads and positions without requiring complex control systems or multiple fixed counterweights.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the load on the X-ray detector during movement, allows for increased elevating range, and provides a compact balancing mechanism that maintains safety by engaging a backup ratchet mechanism if the primary wire fails, thus overcoming the regulatory constraints on lead usage.
Implementation Method 1
a balancing mechanism that exerts force, which balances a load by the X-ray detector, to the belt by a clockwork spring
Implementation Method 2
balances a load by the X-ray detector
Implementation Method 3
a ratchet gear having the axis as a rotational axis; a detent that is biased by a spring toward the direction of engaging with the ratchet gear
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray detecting stand that includes an X-ray detector, a vertical column that supports the X-ray detector so as to be movable, and elevating device for raising and lowering the X-ray detector along the column through a belt, including a balancing mechanism that exerts force, which balances a load by the X-ray detector, to the belt by a clockwork spring. The balancing mechanism has a wire having one end coupled to the belt at the side opposite to the X-ray detector, a wheel that reels up the other end of the wire, and a clockwork spring that applies take-up torque to the wheel.